The Blue & White Flash November 14, 2019

INSIDE

Vol. 80 / No. 10 OPINION

Reclaim Your Power page 3

NEWS

Domestic Violence Stats page 5

www.thejsuflash.com Va r i e t y

Domestic Violence in movies page 7

November 14, 2019 S P O RT S

JSU defeats ASU page 8

Photo by Monica McGhee One of the participants of the 12th Annual Latasha Norman Run/Walk finishes the race among a cheering crowd.

JSU students and community brave the cold to honor former student at 12th Annual Latasha Norman Run/Walk Darrius Barron Managing Editor Losing a life is a tragic thing that can leave a family with brooding emotions, and a mind full of memories that remind the family of the void that cannot be filled.

L atasha Norman, an accounting major at Jackson State by way of Greenville, Miss., disappeared after leaving class on Nov. 13, 2007.

The next time Norman would be seen was when authorities found her decomposing body in a north Jackson wooded area.

According to the original article published on CBSNews.com, Norman had been subjected to attacks from her then boyfriend, D wayne C ole. It is reported that Norman’s car tires were slashed and someone removed her license plate before her disappearance.

C ole would eventually be charged for physically assaulting Norman. In the end, C ole would

be arrested, tried, and sentenced for the murder of his ex-girlf riend; L atasha Norman.

Nov. 9, 2019 marked the 12th anniversar y of the event honoring Norman’s name.

The L atasha Norman run/walk is a 5K marathon that is hosted on JSU’s campus in honor of the late Norman. Students, community members, alumni, and several other organizations all participate in the event ever y year.

On the plaza, along with a DJ for the event, was several vendors, all with information about domestic violence.

C ontestants and spectators were able to learn things about domestic violence they previously may not have known.

The annual three-mile race features dif ferent categories for participants to be placed in for prizes like medals and trophies.

Although it is a race and there are prizes available, there is a much bigger message for par ticipants and spectators; domestic

violence is a serious issue.

Shanice Moore, a junior social work major f rom Milwaukee, Wis., believes that the message behind the race is being received well.

“Most people who attend the walk like me and my f riend, learned some impor tant information after wards. That event opened our eyes to a lot of things that are happening each day. B ecoming aware of what is happening around us causes a person to understand more of who to talk to and what we can do in order to protect ourselves,” said Moore.

Clement Gibson, JSU alumnus f rom Minneapolis, Minn., came back to his alma mater to par ticipate in the event because of what it means for society. “ The impor tance of the event is what brought me back. With all of the news with sex traf f icking, especially amongst black women, I think it’s impor tant to remember L atasha Norman and pay homage to someone who was f ighting the same fight

for our women today.”

Gibson was the secondplace winner in the 5K run categor y, and first place for his age group.

B efore the race, par ticipants indulged in a light breakfast consisting of f r uit, water, and their choice of breakfast sandwiches. Breakfast was followed by a selection f rom a local high school’s dr umline.

The race had par ticipants completing most of the competition on Dr. Rober t Smith Sr. Pkw y, just north of campus.

Par ticipants ranged f rom all sorts of ages f rom pre-teen to senior citizen, and gave different campus organizations the oppor tunity to compete against each other.

Once the race was concluded, contestants celebrated their accomplishments with one another by dancing with each other and taking photos. Friends and family of Norman also gave brief words of positivity, even well as the mayor of Norman’s hometown gave kind words to the crowd

YES, WE’RE SOCIAL!

followed by inspiration.

The L atasha Norman center for counseling and disability ser vices was founded in 2007.

Since its inception, the L atasha Norman center has provided students with a place to come and speak with mental health professionals about their heaviest burdens.

Shanice White, the lead therapist for the L atasha Norman center gave word on the purpose of the event. “ The message behind the L atasha Norman run/ walk is to let ever yone know that domestic violence is a serious issue, and I call it a public health crisis because there are so many different cases that come out on the news that we learn of on the daily basis. One in three women and one in seven men can be victims of domestic violence. The event is to spread awareness about domestic violence and to share different resources for students or anyone who is a victim.”

@JSU_StudentPub

Tiger Events

The Blue & White Flash

RETRACTION: The front-page article in the Vol. 80/No. 9 Nov. 7, 2019 issue: Republicans sweep majority of state offices in Mississippi’s election; was written by Cianna Hope Reeves, Editor-in-Chief and not Kharynton Allen as published.

The Blue & White Flash Jackson State University P.O. Box 18449 Jackson, Mississippi 39217 Phone: 601.979.2082 E-Mail: theflash@jsums.edu

JSU’s 7-Day Weather Forecast

THURSDAY High 52o Low 31o Cloudy

FRIDAY High 51o Low 28o Sunny

SATURDAY High 56o Low 32o Sunny

SUNDAY High 60o Low 39o Cloudy

MONDAY High 61o Low 41o Partly Cloudy

TUESDAY High 65o Low 48o Sunny

WEDNESDAY High 70o Low 52o Partly Cloudy

The Blue & White Flash Staff SHANNON D. TATUM Publications Manager CIANNA HOPE REEVES Editor- in-Chief DARRIUS BARRON Managing Editor

DEJA DAVIS Managing Editor

WAKIL ATIG Sports Editor

KALIN NORMAN Photography Editor

Chioma Ajuonuma Kharynton Allen Zahriah Balentine Jordon Canada Halle Coleman DeJarius Evans Ry’n Good Myha Harris Capri Howard

Zipporah Jones Jessica Knight Monica McGhee Ivory Lowe Luis Montgomery Kaylin Robinson Kelsei Scott Kayla Sims Treasure Thigpen

Letters To The Editor

Letters to the editor are welcome. Editors reserve the right to print or reject for publication any letters received. Letters must include the author’s name(s), address, and phone number; phone number will not be published. All letters are subject to editing for space and libel consideration. Materials must be submitted by Monday at 5 p.m. for publication on Thursday.

Editorial Staff

The Blue & White Flash is open to contributions from all Jackson State University students. We encourage all students, regardless of major and/or classification, to participate in the production of their newspaper. For information concerning your contribution to “The Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University,” call 601-979-2082 or visit room 111 in the Rose E. McCoy Building.

Publication/Distribution Information

The Blue & White Flash is a weekly newspaper written and edited by the students with the counsel of the adviser. Editorials and letters to the editor represent the views of the writer(s). Views expressed within do not necessarily represent the opinions of the faculty/staff, the administration, the student body, or the Board of Trustees. The editors determine the time of the publication and the ethical qualities of all articles. Articles and other materials in The Flash cannot be republished without the expressed written permissions of the editor, adviser and the Student Publications Board at Jackson State University. The Flash is published during the fall and spring semesters, but not during university-recognized holidays, mid-semester and final examinations. The Flash is distributed at various locations around the Jackson State University campus, free of charge to students, staff and faculty. Additional copies may be obtained from the Office of Student Publications.

Awards & Honors The Blue & White Flash has received numerous awards and honors from the Mississippi Press Association, Black College Communications Association and the Southern Regional Press Institute. The Flash proudly hosted the 2003 and 2010 HBCU Newspaper Conference and Job Fair at Jackson State University.

Subscription Information

Subscription rates for The Blue & White Flash are 25 issues for $25 or the special alumni rate of 25 issues for $20. To subscribe to the Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University, submit your name, address, city, state, and zip code. Make a check or money order payable to The Blue & White Flash and mail to address above.

Opinion

Page 3 - November 14, 2019

The Blue & White Flash

Cartoon by Ivory Lowe

The first step of personal growth is reclaiming your life COMMENTARY

Cianna Hope Reeves Editor-in-Chief

“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.”

It’s a common childhood chant that I soon learned was a lie as I grew older.

In society, domestic violence was once perceived only as a

physical confrontation between individuals, until others begin to understand it’s not just what you do but it’s also what you say that can have the greatest impact.

As a child, it wasn’t the physical pain I suffered, it was the humiliation I experienced throughout grade school that caused me to form an underlying dislike about myself.

From the laughs about my weight, to the insults of my appearance it became a tough mental showdown to overcome.

Little did I know; this was my introduction to what many call today ‘mental abuse’.

It is said that mental abuse is one of the hardest forms of abuse to recognize and, well, I can believe that. It can be subtle and insidious or overt and manipulative.

No matter what, it will leave you feeling trapped in a pool of self-doubt and constant thinking.

Make your mental and physical health a priority.

Stop worrying about impressing the person who did you wrong. Take care of yourself and focus on you. Do something that will help you think positive and affirm who you are.

Whether its journaling, going out more with friends, having a pamper day just for you—find time to cater to yourself because you are all you have! Also, be sure to rest adequately and eat healthy meals to boost your proactivity which could help you deal with day-to-day stresses of emotional abuse.

Stop blaming yourself.

If you have encountered emotional abuse for any amount of time, you may believe that there is something wrong with you. Well, I’m here to say its not you, its them. My mom once told me “people talk about you because they want to be you” and when I realized that, I no longer had to blame

This form of abuse is also dangerous because you can easily façade how you feel to make others believe you are just fine—which is a common tactic for many, including myself.

I used to have a bad habit of compressing my feelings and holding in things that needed to be discussed. It wasn’t that I didn’t have anyone to turn to, I just didn’t know who else could relate to my story given that I was just a kid in middle school.

It’s easy to close up, it’s comforting to “just deal with it” but it’s not healthy to continue the cycle of mental instability because that will lead you to having toxic traits.

Thankfully, I had the support system and the outpouring love of my family to help me regain my confidence as I transitioned to high school and then to college.

Now, I’m encouraging you to reclaim your life by taking control! Here’s how:

myself. Moral of the story: you are not the problem, so stop blaming yourself for something you have no control over.

Build a support network.

Stop being silent about the abuse you are experiencing.

Talk to a trusted friend, family member or even a counselor about what you are experiencing.

Take time away from the person that triggers your self-esteem and surround yourself with people who care for you and support you without feeling alone.

Lastly, visit the Latasha Norman Center where free counseling services are offered for students who need help or simply just someone to talk to.

Remember, the first step to personal growth is making strides to become the best version of yourself!

The views expressed in the commentary are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.

“What do you believe are signs of domestic violence?”

Compiled by: Zahriah Balentine

Markus Brooks Senior Criminal Justice Bloomington, Ill. “Keeping you discouraged, preventing you from making your own decisions, or intimidating you. Really anything that involves harassment or using tactics to gain control.”

Sharda ‘ Perry Sophomore Biology/Pre-Medicine Memphis, Tenn.

“Your partner bullies, threatens, or controls you and your money.

Also your partner cuts you off from family and close friends.”

Kenisha Webbe Senior Music Education St. Croix Virgin Island “Victims of domestic violence tend to become isolated from their friends and family. They become depressed and overly apologetic. They tend to wear longer clothing to cover up any bruises.”

Anthony Harris Senior Music Education Baton Rouge, La.

Tiffany Campbell Sophomore Civil Engineering St. Elizabeth, Jamaica

Micah Briggs Senior Sociology Baton Rouge, La.

Zykerria Henderson Sophomore Psychology Marks, Miss.

“The signs usually start with an unexpected change in character, unnecessary profane language, and abusive threats from your partner.”

“They include being fearful of your significant other. Some bully or threaten you, control finances, cuts you off from friends and family, and physically and sexually abuse you.”

“I believe a sign of domestic violence is when couples have intense arguments in public and the woman seems frightened of her own husband or boyfriend.”

“Signs of domestic violence can be aggression, isolation, being demanding and verbal abuse.”

Jaleel Jean Senior Mathematics Atlanta, Ga.

Jaylin Guice Junior Graphic Design Dallas, Texas

Ayana Cooper Junior Political Science Atlanta, Ga.

Deandre Stevenson Senior Sociology Byhalia, Miss.

Sierra Thomas Junior Political Science South Bend, Ind.

“Signs include chronic paranoia, suddenly becoming antisocial towards close friends, and depression. I also think bruises or any other pain infliction.”

“Some signs are new bruises appearing daily, a sudden change in their behavior, and they rarely go places without their partner.”

“Extreme jealousy, verbal abuse, extremely controlling behavior, forced sexual activities and embarrassment or humiliation of the victim in front of others.”

“Isolation from family and friends, nervousness in public spaces, anxiety, anger, and, always needing approval from significant other.”

“When your partner is controlling and jealous.

It might come off as the abuser being concerned, but in actuality the individual may be showing you who they truly are.”

News

Page 4 - November 14, 2019

The Blue & White Flash

Domestic violence issues affects all genders and races Kayla Sims Staff Writer On average, nearly 24 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men aged 18 and older in the United States have been the victim of severe physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).

As an effort to advocate for battered men and women, National Domestic Violence Awareness Month was established in 1981 by NCADV. Shelia Howard, an author, domestic violence survivor and motivational speaker, spoke about her story of domestic violence and about loving herself.

“My story is simple, there are no twists and turns; there are no secrets or anything like that. I fell in love with the wrong guy. I suffered from his abuse for years before I realized how much I needed to get out, but by then, I had to turn myself in while I was 8 months pregnant,” remininced Howard. “It was horrid, I was abused, lied on, and loving someone who did not love me.”

Domestic violence is not only limited to physical abuse, but also verbal, emotional and sexual abuse as well.

Verbal abuse is defined as the act of forcefully criticizing, insulting, or denouncing another person which includes bullying, criticizing, name calling and threatening.

Jonathan Banks, coordinator for the Domestic Violence Center, said college students are more likely to experience domestic violence than adults.

“I see college students all the time. They are usually young women who are scared to tell their family about what is going on with them. It’s sad because the young women that come in are beautiful and they aren’t able to see that in themselves,” said Banks.

According to the British Journal of Psychiatry, emotional abuse is any abusive behavior that isn’t physical, which may include aggression, intimidation, manipulation, and humiliation.

Around 80 percent of women and 32 percent of men admitted to being emotionally abused, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

The true amount of domestic violence in America is difficult to determine for several reasons: it often goes unreported, even on surveys and there is no way of gathering information from local police departments about the number of substantiated reports and there is also a disagreement about what should be included in the definition of domestic violence.

A study from 2017 estimated that approximately 1.8 million women were severely assaulted by male partners over the course of a year, while other studies indicate the percentage of women experiencing dating violence, including sexual assault, physical violence, or verbal and emotional abuse, ranges as high as 65 percent.

Women make up over half of the victims of murder by a close

File Photo

companion. Of that statistic, 33 percent of those women were killed by an intimate partner.

Women also make up about 85 of the casualties of non-deadly abusive behavior at home.

African-American women and men experience the ill effects of abusive behavior at home and experience the highest rates of domestic violence.

According to CommunityBased Domestic Violence Services, black women experienced aggressive behavior at home at a 35 percent higher rate than that of white females, and around multiple times the pace of ladies of different races. Black men

experienced abusive behavior at home at a rate about 62 percent higher than that of white guys and around multiple times the pace of men of different races.

Joseph Reed, a senior psychology major from Memphis Tenn., talked about the affects domestic violence had on his childhood.

“I remember my mother getting abused by my father often, everytime we would leave and go stay with my grandmother but within two days we’d be right back going through the same thing again. My mother died at the hands of my father, he had gotten so angry that he shot and killed

her, and turned himself in,” Reed recalled emotionally.

Up to 54 percent of women seeking emergency services, up to 66 percent of women seeking general medical care, and up to 20 percent of women seeking prenatal care, report experiencing domestic violence.

While the affects of domestic violence on our society may be impossible to measure accurately, ff you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence do not stay silent. The LNC on campus is a resource for students.

You can also visit www.thehotline. org or call 1-800-799-7233 for support.

Death of Clark-Atlanta student Alexis Crawford sparks outrage Deja Davis Managing Editor The disappearance of 21-yearold Alexis Crawford led to headlines all over the Internet, but once the whole story came together, it struck a nerve to many.

Crawford went missing on Oct. 30, which was the last day that her family heard from her.

“Baby I love you, baby” her father, Bobby Wright said at a news conference a week ago. “Just come home baby, just come home.”

Crawford’s parents filed a missing person’s report on Nov. 1 and unfortunately, seven days later their lives changed for the worst.

Atlanta investigators revealed that the student was killed early on Oct. 31 by her roommate and her roommate’s boyfriend, where her body was found at a park in Dekalb County.

The two suspects, Barron Brantley, 21, and Jordyn Jones, also 21, were taken into custody and transported to Fulton County jail just days following her murder.

Atlanta Police Chief Erika Shields told reporters that one of two suspects in the murder of Crawford led authorities to her body.

Crawford’s roommate, Jordyn Jones, originally told police she’d last seen Crawford just after midnight on Oct. 31, after the two women

Google Image

had gone to the liquor store together, according to 11Alive.

Jones said Crawford then went to bed, and the following morning Crawford was not in the apartment.

The front door was also locked supposedly.

Following the arrests, police released that three days before Crawford went missing, she filed a police report against Brantley saying that he sexually assaulted her.

In an already devastating case that continues to make headlines nationally, the latest details exposed a more gruesome take of the final

moments of Crawford’s life.

Crawford was strangled and smothered to death with a plastic bag before her remains were placed in a plastic bin and later dumped in a park, according to Fulton County Superior Court documents released on Nov. 12.

Authorities stated that Crawford and her roommate, Jones, were fighting in their off-campus apartment early Oct. 31 when Jones’ boyfriend, Brantley, intervened and choked Crawford until she died.

The medical examiner

listed her cause of death as asphyxiation.

Several tweets and Instagram posts were made in regard to this horrific tragedy. @DemetriaLesterC tweeted, “I can’t wait to see Jordyn Jones plead her pathetic case from prison while watching Alexis Crawford’s documentary in a few years. She really murdered that girl and then had the nerve to post her missing flyer all over Instagram. SICKENING!” @KillaJay_25’s tweet went viral on the day the suspects

were taken in to custody.

He posted an image of Crawford pictured with Jones and friends that quoted, “Watch the ones closest to you also. The world is just that cruel man.”

On Nov. 10, Clark Atlanta University’s president uploaded a letter to the parents on their school’s social media outlets to release the news of their fallen CAU student.

Later that night, hundreds of students came together for a candlelight vigil to mourn the loss of Crawford on their campus.

Crawford was one of 10 children, and her family hosted Jones for Easter and Thanksgiving, a spokesperson of the family Rev. Markel Hutchins told the Atlanta Journal Constitution.

“Alexis often referred to Jordyn as her best friend,” he said in the interview. “That makes the tragedy all the more difficult to understand and reconcile,” Hutchins told the newspaper.

He added: “They knew Jordyn, they liked Jordyn. There was never a reason to suspect that Jordyn would do anything wrong or ill to Alexis.”

Crawford’s funeral is set for Nov. 16 at 12 p.m. at Hill Chapel Baptist Church in Athens, Ga., where she was raised.

Brantley and Jones are both charged with felony murder and are being held without bond.

Newest members of Outspoken showcase talents to JSU students Kaylin Robinson Staff Writer The Outspoken Arts Collective of Jackson State University held its new members showcase, entitled “Hi-Def,” in the Jacob L. Reddix building on Nov. 5.

In total, there were 18 new members, consisting of four poets, five singers and rappers, two painters, a photographer who also danced, and even a young man that could make music using his voice.

The two emcees started the show off by getting the crowd warmed up, before introducing the performers.

The poets touched on heartfelt subjects, such as mental illness, domestic violence, the need for guidance, and political issues.

Each poet’s words were like powerful magnets pulling in the crowd with everyone anticipating the next line.

The singers sang with much emotion, hitting every note and run effortlessly. A lot of times, the crowd joined in singing the lyrics with them and yelling out “You better sing!”

The rappers hit every punchline and bar with intense aggression and gave so much energy in their performance.

They rapped about a variety of topics, like losing and finding themselves; what it is like for young people living in the struggle; and to even let people know that they will be one of the next hottest artists in the rap industry.

Once the audience got the hang of the song, they rocked with the artists and cheered them on as each recited captivating lyrics.

The painters and photographers captured the essence of human emotion in their works, and the dancer flowed and moved with swag.

When the show was over, the audience gave everyone who participated a standing ovation, cheering and showing love for all of the performers.

A few members from the audience shared how they felt about witnessing the showcase.

Ruby Pollock, a junior political science major from Puckett, Miss., expressed how

Google Image Outspoken members during New Member Showcase.

she loves that Jackson State has so many talented students and seeing them in person actually felt like a real concert.

“I’m also glad they had a really good turnout, because a lot of times when there is a campus event, the turnout can be really iffy,” said Pollock.

Pollock went on to say that

her favorite performer was Faith.

Faith is a singer and her act consisted of performing her very own song.

“She really just gave me Summer Walker vibes,” said Pullock.

Karen Williams, a sophomore psychology major from St. Louis, Mo., explained

what the experience is like being a part of Outspoken Arts Collective.

“Being a part of Outspoken is really like being a part of a family. Everybody knows each other’s songs and we are all connected and working together. Everybody is just really close,” said Williams.

The Blue & White Flash

Page 5 - November 14, 2019

JSU AT A GLANCE

2.

1.

3.

5.

7.

4.

6.

Photos 1-7 by Monica McGhee

1-7) Candid shots of participants during the 12th Annual Latasha Norman Run/Walk held at Jackson State University on Nov. 9, 2019. JSU student Lastasha Norman lost her life to domestic violence in 2007. The university honors her life and brings awareness to domestic violence with the annual run/walk.

Variety

Page 6 - November 14, 2019

The Blue & White Flash

Domestic violence issues tackled on the movie screen Zipporah Jones Staff Writer As domestic violence in the media becomes more common, movie depictions are also on the rise. But how much is too much?

Celebrities, politicians, and everyday people are often shown in the media being abusive to their partners or other close people in their lives. Some believe that seeing so much of this could cause a person to become numb or desensitized to domestic violence.

Because of how common it is, or rather, because of its shock value, it is shown to people not only in the news media but also entertainment, specifically in the movies that we watch.

Before getting into what movies actually display domestic abuse, let’s get into what domestic abuse actually is.

Domestic abuse is defined as a pattern of coercive, controlling behavior that is pervasive and life-threatening according to thecenterforfamilyjustice.org.

It is essentially something that involves two people, one being the abuser, and one being abused.

In cinema, pain is profit, so of course, there are many movies that show this kind of abuse.

One cult classic, “Baby Boy”, is a perfect example of a movie that shows domestic violence between two people in a relationship.

In this movie, the main character, Jody, is a man involved

Graphic by Kalin Norman

romantically with two women named Yvette and Peanut. Yvette is his girlfriend of five years while Peanut is a teenager that Jody cheated on Yvette with.

Jody has children with both of the women and is constantly unfaithful to his girlfriend Yvette.

Yvette and Jody are both abusers and victims of domestic violence - in one scene they both fight, her punching him first, then him slapping her. Jody constantly mistreats Yvette, and it takes a mental toll on her.

All of the mistreatment blows up in the couple’s face, ultimately causing a negative chain reaction causing the relationship to fall apart.

The ending of “Baby Boy” was rather light-hearted, but in reality, domestic abuse on this level can not only tear relationships apart, but people, their mental health, and daily lives.

“Midsommar”, which was released this summer, is a film that highlights the mental toll domestic abuse can take on one’s life.

Although “Midsommar” is considered a horror movie, a lot of the reactions of one of the main characters, Dani, the girlfriend of a graduate school student named Christian.

Through all of the violence and shocking experiences that Dani goes through in the film, Christian shows little to no support for her.

Christian also ignores her body language and verbal pleas for help.

Dani, already fragile from a recent traumatic event is scarred even further by her nonchalant

boyfriend.

The movie is a metaphor for someone getting back at the person who has been neglecting them, and neglect can also be a form of emotional domestic abuse.

Another cult classic, the original 1972 “Superfly”, features this kind of abuse as well. Priest, the main character and a prominent drug dealer, takes both his girlfriend and lover through hard times as they deal with the problems he has as a drug dealer as well.

He also expects these women to stay loyal to him whilst he does what he wants. Priest does not consider how much stress and responsibility he put on these women, while also not paying attention to their emotional needs.

Of course, verbal and emotional abuse are not the kinds of abuse that we normally focus on.

Physical and mental abuse like in Tyler Perry’s “Diary of a Mad Black Woman”, “Why did I get Married?” and “I Can Do Bad All

by Myself” was in-your-face and upfront.

All of three films by Perry feature black women in situations of continued abuse at the hands of men.

Domestic abuse, whether physical, emotional, or mental, is something that many movies explore, possibly for entertainment or possibly to spread awareness.

Should movies display this kind of violence and if they do, should they limit what they show?

Eddie Murphy shines in Dolemite is My Name reprisal Stephen Guy MC301 Contributor “Dolemite Is My Name” is extremely rude, erotically crude, comically creative and dramatically diverting; it couldn’t have been any better.

Arguably the best Netflix film of the year, Eddie Murphy, alongside a brilliant veteran cast, produces ‘Netflexcellence’ of a remake of a 1970’s crime/blaxploitation movie phenomenon, “Dolemite”.

In only its first month after release, “Dolemite Is My Name” has received high ratings by the most respected movie critic websites.

IMDb gives the Netflix production a 7.5/10, Metacritic puts up a 76 percent score, and Rotten Tomatoes bumps their rating up to 97 percent, almost the same ratings as the Marvel blockbuster “Black Panther”.

“Dolemite” is the name of its principal character, played by Rudy Ray Moore, who co-wrote the film and its soundtrack.

Moore, who started his career as a stand-up comedian in the late 1960s, heard a rhymed toast about an urban hero named Dolemite from a regular at the record store where he worked and decided to adopt the persona of Dolemite as an alter ego in his act.

The plot centers around Dolemite who is a pimp who was set up by Willie Greene and the cops. They have planted drugs, stolen furs, and guns in his trunk

Google Image Cast of “Dolemite is My Name” reprisal.

and he is sentenced to 20 years in jail.

One day, Queen B and the warden plan to get him out of jail and also get Willie Green and Mitchell busted for what the setup. However, Dolemite is no stupid man and has a lot of warriors backing him, such as his call girls, who are karate experts and lots more. D’urville Martin co-starred and directed the film.

The cast members in this remake are so elite it was destined to be greatness from the very beginning.

The original blaxploitation star Moore is paid homage by the all

around entertainer Eddie Murphy, who has been in a wide range of classic movies across different genres and generations.

Some of his best works include comedies like “The Nutty Professor”, “Norbit” and “Life”, romantic comedies such as “Coming to America” and “Dreamgirls” and Disney movies “Mulan” and “Shrek”.

Veteran actor Wesley Snipes portrays D’urville Martin. Snipes, a major action/drama/comedy movie star is best known for his roles in “Blade”, “Passenger 57”, “Demolition Man”, and of course “New Jack City”.

Jimmy Lynch is portrayed by

none other than the incomparable Mike Epps, noted by his classic comedy experiences in “Next Friday”, “Friday After Next”, and “The Hangover”.

Keegan-Michael Key reprises the role of Jerry Jones. Key is known for his comedy sketches in “Key and Peele” and appearances in TV roles in “MadTV” and “Parks and Recreation”.

The role of Ben Taylor is taken on by Craig Robinson, best known for his comedic roles in movies like “Hot Tub Time Machine” and “Pineapple Express”, and highly rated TV shows “The Office” and Brooklyn Nine-Nine”.

The Netflix film even includes famous cameos by rappers/actors Snoop Dogg and T.I and actor/ comedian Chris Rock.

Murphy’s production shines light on the life and success of Rudy Ray Moore, who he says he even met decades before and always wanted to show the generations after Moore what he was made of.

Murphy believes Moore has not received the recognition that he deserves outside his generation, so the idea to make a motion picture story about him was pitched to Netflix.

The final result came out to be such a success, it was enough to even impress David Shabazz, author of the biography “Dolemite: The Story of Rudy Ray Moore”. “The movie was very close to the mark,” Shabazz said in a USA Today interview. He also stated that Eddie Murphy did an excellent job capturing the man and telling the story of what Rudy Ray Moore went through.

Murphy’s career work has spread across borders of entertainment that others cannot reach in the same way. The same can be said for his notoriety among different generations. His chemistry with films is special enough to blend the beauties of unlikely categories, which puts him in his own category as an actor. Murphy knows how to show his ageless, limitless talent as the “King of Cross Genres”.

Murphy is his name, and making classic movies is his game.

Can you dig it?

Kevin Gates’ returns to Jackson for his I’m Him tour Wakil Atig Sports Editor Atlantic Records recording artist and Bread Winners Association co-owner Kevin Gates decided to bless the city of Jackson with a performance that will be remembered for the ages.

While on tour promoting his latest album, “I’m Him”, Kevin Gates was in rare form as he electrified the crowd at Thalia Mara Hall.

The doors opened at 6:30 p.m. as a crowd of people formed outside in the rain. For most people, this was their first time seeing Gates in concert and you could see the excitement on their faces. Opening acts, YK Osiris and OG Boobie Black did a great job getting the crowd ready for Gates as fans were in high anticipation.

YK Osiris’ hit single, “Worth It” was a crowd shaker as he opened and closed his set with it. The high pitched vocals of the 21 year old prodigy can cut bricks with a knife as he took members of the audience through an emotional rollercoaster. His energy and stage generalship set the tone for the

show. Also with OG Boobie Black providing nothing less than street excellence with his performance, the crowd knew they were in for something beyond special.

At 9 p.m. after a brief intermission between the opening acts, it was time for Kevin Gates to hit the stage. Dj Ron warmed the crowd up briefly with some of Gates biggest underground hits and then the lights went out. Dj Ron instructs everyone raise their cell phones and turn on their lights while an introduction video plays on the screen on stage. When Kevin Gates ran out on stage, smoke and fireworks shot out on stage, while he ripped through “Push It” as the roof nearly exploded off the building.

After the song, Gates pauses to tell the crowd, “Last time I was in Jackson, it was not this many people here. So this time since yall packed out in here, I’m going to do something special for y’all. Listen I love doing this music thing it’s cool and all, but I am not perfect.

Throughout my journey I have learned that it’s not about where you start, but it’s about where you finish so don’t let nobody hold your

past against you.” This provoked an emotional cheer response from the crowd as he dived into his next song, “Imagine That”.

Gates not only performed his music, but he talked to the crowd and gave sound advice on life, success and relationships. His brute honesty with the crowd made the show feel like a therapy session as the emotions of some crowd members were uncontrollable. He managed to lead into most songs with a brief story about his life and how he has overcome challenges along his journey.

After performing “Face Down” and “Fatal Attraction”, Gates informs the male members of the crowd of the stealth cunningness of some women and how to not let it get the best of them. This got the crowd to chuckle a bit while he led into more songs from his album including “Facts” and “Let it Go”. Gates wittiness in between songs kept the crowd engaged and amused although most of his music reflects a dark reality from his past.

To close the show, Gates performed his two biggest singles to date, “ 2 Phones” and “IDGT”.

These records were like a war cry

Google Image

for the crowd as they cheered joyfully with sheer emotion.

With the floor shaking, cell phone lights beaming and fireworks exploding on the stage, the show had come to an end.

Before he left the crowd, Gates said a prayer and thanked everyone for having him. “Hey Jacskon it was my pleasure. I love all yall to death.

Without yall, I don’t know where I would be in life. Thank you,” said Gates as he exited the stage.

Dasia Dyson, a sophomore healthcare administration major from New Orleans, La., definitely got the best out of the “I’m Him” tour experience.

“The concert was amazing!

Gates is the type of artist where you have to understand him in order to feel his music. All his songs tell a story and are very therapeutic.

This was not my first time seeing him in concert, but it was definitely his best. The “I’m Him” tour was definitely a great experience.

History was made tonight in Jackson, Miss.,” said Dyson.

Alexis Hewitt, a sophomore social work major from Jackson, Miss., was not let down during her first ever concert experience.

“It was a great experience for me. This was my first time going to a concert and it was honestly amazing. He interacted with the crowd, talked about his life and gave brief introductions for most of his songs. Overall he made us feel like we knew him on a personal level and I loved every moment of it,” said Hewitt.

MCAN/MDAN

Page 7 - November 14, 2019

The Blue & White Flash

Employment

For Sale

L. E. TUCKER & SON, INC. - CDL DRIVERS needed to run from S.E. to West Coast. Experienced singles and teams. Check out our new pay package.

Singles, 41 cents per mile for 60 day probationary period. 46 cents per mile thereafter. Teams, 50 cents per mile for 60 day probationary period. 55 cents per mile thereafter. Late model conventional tractors. Home weekly. Benefits package.

Pearl, MS. 601-939-8088. www.tuckerandson.com

SEND FAIRYTALE BROWNIES - Over 25% off for the holidays! Christmas Brownie Bliss - 36 pc. Bite-size. Belgian chocolate. Six flavors. Only $39.95 + FREE shipping. Order now, ship later! Call 1-844-828-1503 and ask for item CR436L or visit www.brownies.com/m97185

Property Inspector Wanted Take pictures and report on condition of rental property - $65 per trip.

Text 601-351-5368

Services-Legal

DENIED SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY? Appeal! If you're 50+, filed for SSD and denied, our attorneys can help get you approved! No money out of pocket!

Call 601-203-3826 If you or a loved one worked around the pesticide ROUNDUP (glyphosate), for at least two years and has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's Insurance lymphoma, you may be entitled to comATTENTION MEDICARE RECIPIENTS! pensation. To learn more, call now: Open enrollment is upon us! We want to 844-327-3556 you money on your medicare supClasses / Training save HUGE 2-DAY PUBLIC AUCTION plement plan. FREE QUOTES from top Services-Medical Huge Contractors Equipment & Truck Auction AIRLINES ARE HIRING - Get FAA providers. Excellent coverage. Call for a A PLACE FOR MOM has helped over a Wednesday, Nov. 20th & approved hands on Aviation training. no obligation quote to see how much you million families find senior living. Our Thur., Nov. 21st, 2019 • 9am 1042 Holland Ave • Philadelphia, Mississippi Financial aid for qualified students. can save! Toll free: 1-855-400-8352 trusted, local advisors help find solutions Day 1: Selling Dump Trucks, Truck Tractors, Specialty Trucks, Trailers, Career placement assistance. Call Farm Tractors, Pickups, Vehicles, Attachments, Misc. & More to your unique needs at no cost to you.

Medical Supplies Aviation Institute of Maintenance, 1-866Day 2: Selling Dozers, Excavators, Motor Graders, Off Road Trucks, Call 1-601-812-5678.

Rubber-tired Loaders, Loader Backhoes, Skid Steers, Compaction 367-2510.

ATTENTION DIABETICS! Save money Eq., Forklifts, Logging, Service Trucks, Fuel/Lube Trucks & More COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PRO- on your diabetic supplies! Convenient Travel Deanco Auction 601-656-9768 www.deancoauction.com 1042 Holland Ave (PO Box 1248) • Philadelphia, Mississippi 39350 Auctioneer: Donnie W Dean, #733, MSGL #835 GRAM! Train at home to become a home shipping for monitors, test strips, 10% Buyers Premium on the first $4500 of each lot and then a 1% buyers premium and the remaining balance of each lot.

Computer and Help Desk Professional insulin pumps, catheters and more! To ORLANDO + DAYTONA BEACH now! Call CTI for details! 833-992- learn more, call now! 877-368-0628 Florida Vacation! Enjoy 7 Days and 6 Nights with Hertz, Enterprise or Alamo 0228 (M-F 8am-6pm ET) VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Pills MEDICAL BILLING and CODING SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% Car Rental Included - Only $298.00. 12 TRAINING. New Students Only. Call guaranteed. CALL NOW! 844-821-3242 months to use. Call Now! 877-2415382. (24/7) 0 HUGE 2-DAY PUBLIC AUCTION and Press 1. 100% online courses.

Huge Contractors Equipment & Truck Auction 0 8 Miscellaneous Financial Aid Available for those who Wednesday, Nov. 20th & 8 8 qualify. Call 1-844-664-5478 Thur., Nov. 21st, 2019 • 9am DONATE YOUR CAR TO CHARITY. 8 8 1042 Holland Ave • Philadelphia, Mississippi PHARMACY TECHNICIAN - ONLINE Receive maximum value of write off for 0Day 1: Selling Dump Trucks, Truck Tractors, Specialty Trucks, Trailers, TRAINING AVAILABLE! Take the first your taxes. Running or not! All condiFarm Tractors, Pickups, Vehicles, Attachments, Misc. & More step into a new career! Call now: 1-866- tions accepted. Free pickup. Call for Day 2: Selling Dozers, Excavators, Motor Graders, Off Road Trucks, Rubber-tired Loaders, Loader Backhoes, Skid Steers, Compaction 664-4140 details. 855-400-8263 Eq., Forklifts, Logging, Service Trucks, Fuel/Lube Trucks & More

For Sale ENJOY 100% GUARANTEED, delivered to-the-door OMAHA STEAKS SAVE 68% PLUS get 4 FREE Burgers.

Order The Favorite Gift - ONLY $69.99.

1-855-398-5977 mention code:59104VZN or visit www.omahasteaks.com/cook51 GIVE THE GIFT of delicious ORANGES fresh from the grove!

Four unique varieties. Twenty delicious oranges. LIMITED TIME OFFER. Only $19.99 ( $5.99 s/h per box). Call Hale Groves 1-855-813-2131. Mention item #487 and code HMVH-N200 or visit www.halegroves.com/A12202 SEND A BOX FULL of winter sunshine this holiday season! Handpicked. Mixed fruit medley.

Satisfaction guaranteed. SAVE 20%! Only $19.99. Free Shipping. Call Pittman & Davis 1-877-372-5608 and mention item #MXFM and code PMVH-N187 or visit www.www.pittmandavis.com/M10124

Deanco 8 8Auction 8 601-656-9768 8 8 www.deancoauction.com 8 8 8 8

Services- General

8

1042 Holland Ave (PO Box 1248) • Philadelphia, Mississippi 39350 Auctioneer: Donnie W Dean, #733, MSGL #835 10% Buyers Premium on the first $4500 of each lot and then a 1% buyers premium and the remaining balance of each lot.

8

10% Buyers Premium on the first $4500 of each lot and then a 1% buyers premium and the remaining balance of each lot.

8

8

48 Web DISH Network $59.99 For 190 3.556 x 4 8 Channels! Add High Speed Internet for 8 ONLY $14.95/month. Best Technology.

Best Value. Smart HD DVR Included. FREE 90+ newspapers for one low rate! 0 8 8 8 Installation. Some restrictions apply. Call PUBLIC AUCTION 0 HUGE 8 2-DAY 8 Huge Contractors Equipment & Truck Auction 1-877-628-3143 STATEWIDE RATES: 0 0 8 0 Wednesday, Nov. 20th & Get NFL SUNDAY TICKET FREE w/ Up to 25 words...........$210 80 8 0 Thur., Nov. 21st, 2019 • 9am DIRECTV Choice All-Included Package.

8 8 1042 Holland Ave • Philadelphia, Mississippi 1 col. x 2 inch.............$525 $59.99/month for 12 months. 185 0Day 1: Selling Dump Trucks, Truck Tractors, Specialty Trucks, Trailers, 1 col. x 3 inch.............$785 Farm Tractors, Pickups, Vehicles, Attachments, Misc. & More Channels PLUS Thousands of Day 2: Selling Dozers, Excavators, Motor Graders, Off Road Trucks, Shows/Movies On Demand. FREE Genie 1 col. x 4 inch...........$1050 Rubber-tired Loaders, Loader Backhoes, Skid Steers, Compaction Eq., Forklifts, Logging, Service Trucks, Fuel/Lube Trucks & More HD DVR Upgrade. Call 1-855-978-3110 or satellitedealnow.com/MSPS 8 8Auction 8 601-656-9768 8 8 www.deancoauction.com 8 8 8 8 Nationwide Placement Available Deanco 1042 Holland Ave (PO Box 1248) • Philadelphia, Mississippi 39350 Auctioneer: Donnie W Dean, #733, MSGL #835

Services-Legal ATTENTION: Have you or a loved one used Juul or another e-cigarette vaping device and developed a serious health condition such as stroke, seizure, convulsions, lung damage, pulmonary issues including heart attacks? You may be entitled to compensation! Call now: 855-667-4439

To order your advertising call:

Mississippi Press Services Sue Hicks, 601-981-3060

Week of November 10, 2019

0

8

8 8

8

8 8

8 0 8 8 0 08 0 80 0 8 8 8 0

Sports

Page 8 - November 14, 2019

The Blue & White Flash

Jackson State steams past Alcorn in conference play Wakil Atig Sports Editor The Lady Tigers of Jackson State University has been on quite a run over this past month. The women’s volleyball team has improved their overall record to 16-16 and 12-3 in conference play. Since their early season woes, the ladies have completely turned their season around by dominating the conference.

As they took on longtime in-state rivals, Alcorn State University, the Lady Tigers looked to continue their dominance.

Set one completely belonged to JSU. The Lady Tigers were more aggressive and tenacious throughout the set. Alcorn attempted to make a run to dethrone the Lady Tigers but failed as they had no answers offensively. The Lady Braves were no match as they suffered from miscommunication on the court and fatigue resulting from a limited rotation. JSU cruised through set one winning 25-18.

Set two was different for the Lady Tigers as Alcorn appeared to find a new life midway through the set. The Lady Braves turned their energy level up as well as their aggression.

They made it difficult for JSU to take full control of the set as they just wouldn’t allow a major lead to manifest. JSU for the most part struggled to adapt to what seemed to be a new Lady Braves team as they made simple mistakes down the stretch. Although they made a strong push, their talent just didn’t add up to JSU as the Lady Tigers took set two, 25-20.

In set three, JSU had a challenging start to what was on the verge of being disastrous.

Alcorn got off to a sensational 8-0 start and appeared to be

JSU Athletics Jackson State volleyball players focus before a serve.

in full control. JSU played lazy and seemed to be relaxed in every way. It wasn’t until the set was tied at 16 that JSU came alive and performed like the great team that they are. The Lady Tigers have been battled tested throughout the season and prepared for moments of adversity throughout their trials.

After being down for most of the set, JSU managed to persevere and defeat Alcorn

State University, 25-19 to conclude a three-game sweep of the Lady Braves.

Kanile’a Nomura led the Lady Tigers with a total of 10 kills on 13 attacks. DeKyra Dennis finished the series with a team-high 16 assists along with six digs.

Alana Washington added 10 digs of her own with six assists.

Damassy Thompson notched 14 assists and seven digs.

Kaiya Wall finished with a

total of eight kills on 22 attacks and Camry Dabney finished with seven kills and five digs.

Carin Bridges also notched nine digs.

Madison Wolf and Talia Gaines each added five kills to seal the victory.

Taronta Gines, a junior accounting major from Moss Point, Miss., is proud of the volleyball team and how far they have come this season.

“I see a bright future in the

program if they can keep this momentum going. The ladies have dominated the conference thus far and has improved tremendously since their first home game,” said Gines.

NaKaela Cobb, a sophomore social work major from Chicago said, “Tonight’s game was a breeze for the Lady Tigers. They struggled a little in the third set, but overall they crushed Alcorn and I loved every moment of it.”

Golden State Warriors fighting to stay alive despite injuries

Google Image

Kambui Bomani Sports Writer Professional sports dynasties have a way of developing a shelf life of their own. When the great teams manifest themselves and go on legendary championship runs, their immortality takes a life of its own. In the moment, the organization seems invincible, and their level of productivity seems insurmountable and portray as if they can last forever.

However, like any other great sports run, there’s a beginning and an end to a championship tenure. Usually its end point is the ugliest manifestation in the team’s title run with the unit succumbing to players leaving, injuries, or their opposition improving their level of play.

The Golden State Warriors were a level of dynastic success that the NBA only saw from the Miami Heat

in this decade. From 20102014, the LeBron James Heat won two championships in four years while running the eastern conference.

Once LeBron James returned to Cleveland the summer of 2014, the Warriors took over as the championship model of the league winning three titles in five years succumbing to only a seven-game series defeat in 2016 and a six-game series defeat in 2019.

During that time, the organization and its players made monumental transactions in free agency and saw their drafted talent develop into league changing players right before their very eyes. Power forward, Draymond Green became the 2017 Defensive Player of the Year by becoming a do-everything frontcourt big that was the key to their team’s defense.

Shooting Guard, Klay Thompson developed from a non-dribbling spot-up shooting backcourt mate into

the best two-way two guard in the league. Thompsons ability to become a dominant perimeter defender while also maintaining his three-point marksman ability has helped the Warriors create a backcourt of long-range bombers. 2-time league MVP Steph Curry who became the NBA’s best three-point shooter in recent years while developing his playmaking skills to become one of the top tier lead guards in the game.

This trio helped Golden State develop into one of the marquee title contenders in the game behind the coaching of Steve Kerr from 20152017. And while they went to the NBA Finals two straight years, won a title, and won a league record 73 games in 2016, Kevin Durant raised the teams winning profile into an insurmountable stratosphere.

Durant’s scoring prowess and improved individual defense made the Warriors into a juggernaut that couldn’t

be destroyed. His ultimate demise and the wear and tear from other Warrior players, led to Golden States eventual defeat to the Toronto Raptors preventing a three peat.

It all lead to Golden State currently fighting for survival and relevancy in 2019 where their organization and teammates have deemed it a lost year. They’ve lost as many games this season as they had in their 73-9 campaign and departure and injuries have plagued their slow start.

Stephen Curry broke his hand the second week of the season while Klay Thimpson is currently still recovering from his ACL tear from a year ago.

Draymond Green suffered an upper arm injury in the team’s season opener amongst an array of other injuries that have affected their play. Then there’s Kevin Durant being injured as well along with the fact that he’s on a new team and isn’t a future insurance policy that they can lean on.

DeAngelo Russell is the team’s lone offensive provider currently and has the team treading through the season on fumes with the 2020 draft in its sights. Such a demise from Golden State has some people upset despite the new arena.

Kejaun Wright, an electrical engineering major from Biloxi, Miss., believes the Golden State Warriors dynasty was good while it lasted.

“The 2019-2020 Warriors aren’t the 2017-2018 Warriors.

The team’s time at the top has come to an end as the game has evolved. Stephen Curry’s reign at the top of the basketball world was incredible.”

-Tyler Hardin, a criminal justice major from Memphis, Tenn., wishes the Warriors would have pursued Kevin Durant harder in free agency.

The team has suffered tremendously since the NBA Finals this past summer and their nightmare of being irrelevant is coming true.”